Six-classroom school annex at Parr Library, Fleet Lane, St Helens

What is proposed

The application proposes extensions, ramps, external alterations, solar panels, fencing and hardstanding to convert the building into six classrooms for Mill Green School.

“The application is for the erection of single storey extensions to front, side, and rear of the building following the removal of the existing side extension. There would be ramp access to front and rear, with external alterations to the building, roof fenestration amendments, and solar panels. Part of the proposal involves the installation of a 3m high weld mesh fencing to create external enclosures and additional hardstanding.”

Officer report

The site

The vacant single-storey former library is beside Mill Green School, with residential development nearby, protected trees and a front car park.

“The application site comprises a single storey detached building, which was formerly used as a public library. The site is enclosed with palisade fencing and the building has been vacant since January 2024, for a short period of time when the main library hall has been used by various council departments as storage space.”

“The site is located within an area of mixed uses, with development to the western and southern boundary being predominately residential. To the northern and eastern boundary of the site is Mill Green School, which caters for children with Special Educational Needs (SEND).”

Officer report

Public comments

No letters of representation were received following neighbouring notification and a site notice.

“This application has been advertised with neighbouring notification letters, and a site notice. No letters of representation have been received as a result of the public consultation.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Planning Officer presented the application, and the Head of Access and Sufficiency presented it and answered members’ questions.

The committee’s decision

Planning permission was agreed under delegated authority, subject to the Highways Advisor, MEAS and Coal Authority withdrawing objections and appropriate conditions.

“On this basis, MEAS raised no objections to the application, subject to the inclusion of conditions, as detailed in the report, requiring compliance with the Dusk Survey Results and the delivery of the proposed biodiversity elements.”

“That the decision to Grant Planning Permission be delegated to the Head of Planning, with that decision being subject to Highways Advisor, MEAS and the Coal Authority withdrawing their objection to the proposed development and a schedule of the appropriate conditions. The proposed conditions are as follows (plus any conditions or amendments to conditions requested by the Highways Advisor, MEAS and the Coal Authority and/or deemed necessary by the Head of Planning):”

Minutes